Have a Camping Adventure at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

If you are looking for a camping experience that involves an outdoor adventure on or under the water, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Florida, is the place for you. Enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving as well as kayaking and fishing in the beautiful waters off the coast of Key Largo.

Campsites

We snagged a camping reservation at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, Florida, almost a year ago. This is a very popular campground for boaters, snorkelers, and scuba divers.

Our campsite, number 46, was small, but the perfect size for our little 17′ camper. Each site has a picnic table and a grill. Open fires are prohibited. Electric, water, and sewer hookups are provided. A dump station is located just outside the camping area. Bathhouses are also located in the camping area.

Mosquitoes are a nuisance. Be sure to bring bug spray, our favorite is Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito & Tick Bug Repellent Spray. But the crabs playing peek-a-boo behind the campsite are a hoot to watch.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

My son wanted a camping trip that would involve his new passion, scuba diving. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the perfect place to do this, and the dive shop is located in the park, making it easy to book a reservation for a tour. Book early, the tours fill up fast. Scuba gear can be rented.

This was one dive trip that my son will remember and treasure for numerous reasons.

Snorkeling tours are also available for those not certified in scuba diving, like my husband. The Christ of Deep Statue can still be viewed by snorkelers during their tour. For more information, click here.

Be sure to bring and use coral reef-safe sun lotion to help preserve the coral reefs. Do not touch the coral reefs; observe from a distance.

More Information

To find out more about John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or to book a reservation, click here. Enjoy the massive efforts made to restore and preserve the only coral reef formation found in the lower 48 states. Efforts that you can be part of by respecting the coral reef, the first undersea state park in Florida, and named after a man who fought for its preservation.

Enjoy all of Florida’s State Parks and find the perfect park to explore. Read about our adventures at Florida’s parks here. Happy Camping!

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